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Are you looking for a hike in Virgin Islands National Park that delivers on epic views and is just challenging enough? Then on your next visit to St. John USVI, take a morning hike up the Cinnamon Bay Trail to the America Hill estate ruins.
This trail combo is one of my favorite hikes on St. John, despite the fact that there are some serious inclines. Not only is this 1.2-mile hike a great workout, but it also has some super photogenic ruins and fantastic views out to the BVI at the top. It’s the perfect start to the day before taking literal steps for a soak at Cinnamon Bay Beach.
For this hike, remember you will not be staying on the Cinnamon Bay Trail the whole time. In fact, you will need to switch over to the America Hill Trail a short ways in to complete the climb. Don’t worry – this spur trail is well marked and easy to find.
As this hike requires plenty of climbing, so be prepared to sweat! Once you see the blue expanse of the Caribbean sprawled beyond the pink crumbled ruins at the top, it’ll all be worth it. With that said, here’s everything you need to know about hiking the Cinnamon Bay Trail to the America Hill estate ruins.
Hiking the Cinnamon Bay Trail to America Hill on St John USVI
Cinnamon Bay Trail – Quick Facts
- Length: 1.2 miles out and back
- Difficulty: Moderate. Most of the way out is uphill.
- Time: 50-60 minutes
- Terrain: Rocky soil that can be slippery at times, especially when heading back down.
- Scenery: At the top of the America Hill Trail are lovely estate ruins and views out to Maho Bay, Francis Bay, and the British Virgin Islands.
What to Bring
You don’t need much in order to hike the Cinnamon Bay Trail in Virgin Islands National Park. However, there are a few things you’ll want in order to have a comfortable and safe experience:
- Athletic apparel. I recommend breathable shorts and a moisture wicking top for the hot humid weather, especially if you are hiking at midday.
- Bug Spray. St. John mosquitos are sneaky, but they’ll getcha.
- Hiking shoes. The trail has steep sections with loose rock, which makes it a bit slippery. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction. I personally adore my Keens, although I don’t always manage to fit them in my suitcase.
- Hat to shade your face from the sun, although this trail is mostly well-shaded.
- Sunscreen. Although sun exposure is minimal, it’s a good rule of thumb to always wear reef-safe sunscreen in the Caribbean. Australian Gold is my favorite brand.
- Water bottle. We always bring these vacuum seal water bottles so our water stays ice cold.
- Camera to capture the stunning scenery. I’ve been using the Sony A6000 for years.
- Cell phone in case of an emergency.
- Swimsuit and towel to head straight to Cinnamon Bay Beach when you’re done.
Related: The Ultimate Caribbean Vacation Packing List (Carry-on Only)
How to Access the Cinnamon Bay Trail
The Cinnamon Bay Trailhead is located just off North Shore Road, right next to the Cinnamon Bay sugar mill ruins and in close vicinity to St. John’s best beaches.
1. Park at Cinnamon Bay
Arrive to the Cinnamon Bay Campground (right on Cinnamon Bay Beach) before 10am in order to get a parking spot. It requires a somewhat early rise, but the cooler morning temperatures are ideal for this steep hike. The campground has a paved parking lot with a good amount of spots, but it typically fills up by late morning.
From there, it is just a 100 meter or so walk to the trailhead. Note – you might also be able to park in one of the few dirt spots next to the trailhead.
2. Walk to the Trailhead
If you parked at the Cinnamon Bay Campground, it’s time to take your very short walk to the trailhead. First, head back towards the road and then turn left.
You will eventually need to cross the street and follow the walkway in front of the Cinnamon Bay sugar mill ruins. Be very careful, as the road is curvy with very little/no shoulder to walk on. North Shore Road also tends to have blind curves, so drivers may not be able to see you.
3. Climb the Cinnamon Bay Trail
Now it’s time to start your climb. Right out the gate, the Cinnamon Bay Trail starts out very steep. It is a booty buster! However, it’ll get you warmed up for what’s ahead.
Be very careful on the steeper sections, as the trail sometimes has loose rocks and can be slippery. I recommend wearing shoes with good traction, and please avoid flip flops.
You will only be on the Cinnamon Bay Trail for about one quarter of a mile. Eventually, you will see signage and hit a crossroads with the America Hill trail, which branches off to your left. This is the trail that leads to the beautiful views you seek.
4. Cimb the America Hill Trail
Now it’s time to continue about .4 miles to the top of the America Hill Trail. Although the distance is short, the trail continues to have gradual inclines. Most climbers can expect to be huffing and puffing by the time they reach the top. If you are like me, you will also be drenched in sweat.
Follow the switchbacks up the hill, much of which is well-shaded. Eventually, the trail will flatten out and the trees and shrubs will open up at the top. This part of the trail is covered in weeds and grasses, some of which have pretty flowers, which gives the effect of untamed beauty.
You will soon see the pink colored estate house, which is largely a crumbled ruin that has been reclaimed by nature. As the structure is not stable, you should not enter the building.
5. Take in the View from the America Hill Estate Ruins
Continue down the path at the top to just beyond the estate house. There will be a lovely opening right next to it where you can look out towards Maho and Francis bays. Beyond those pristine beaches, you can even view the British Virgin Islands sprawling out in the distance. This is the perfect reward after all the work you did, along with some refreshing island breezes.
Have More Time? Where to Go Next
You next move would naturally be to go take a dip at Cinnamon Bay Beach. This is the perfect opportunity to cool off and chill by the water after some intense physical activity.
Plus, Cinnamon Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on St. John. This white sand beach is lengthy and great for walks, and there are lovely views of the hilltop mansions of Peter Bay to the west. Still feeling adventurous? You could make the rocky trek over to Little Cinnamon Bay for an even more secluded beach day.
We usually pack a lunch, but the Cinnamon Bay Campground offers food as well. If you are not feeling the beach, I recommend Skinny Legs or the Salty Mongoose in Coral Bay for a laidback lunch scene.
In the other direction, there are plenty of great restaurants in Cruz Bay. High Tide’s location right on the water never gets old for me. I also love retreating to the courtyard of Mongoose Junction for tuna tacos at Sun Dog Cafe.
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The Cinnamon Bay Trail is short but intense, and may kick your booty. However, the intriguing estate ruins and views that greet you at the top make it worth it. Plus, a swim a Cinnamon Bay Beach afterwards is the perfect reward!
